The area we were in is an area of the Emirate where only locals can own property. Free Zones are around but churches are not recognized as a business and cannot have a license to operate, therefore cannot own land or buildings.

It’s not oppressive as some might say are found in other ME countries but the freedom to find a space and building is highly regulated. It seems we are in a time where some poor representations from a few church leaders caused a concern to put the thumb on all churches.

There is a lot to this, if time permits, I’ll see if I can find time to make it more clear.

The loss of the villa is sad but there has been Word they will work with us be able to use event space in a hotel.

We have 23 years worth of stuff to deal with. Things we will never use again because of hotels will provide most all we need.

The area we were in is an area of the Emirate where only locals can own property. Free Zones are around but churches are not recognized as a business and cannot have a license to operate, therefore cannot own land or buildings.

It’s not oppressive as some might say are found in other ME countries but the freedom to find a space and building is highly regulated. It seems we are in a time where some poor representations from a few church leaders caused a concern to put the thumb on all churches.

There is a lot to this, if time permits, I’ll see if I can find time to make it more clear.

The loss of the villa is sad but there has been Word they will work with us be able to use event space in a hotel.

We have 23 years worth of stuff to deal with. Things we will never use again because of hotels will provide most all we need.

There is not a market here for old church things.

Shipping costs probably make trying to sell all of that somewhere else a problem. I'll be praying that you get into a place that's consistently available and secure.

Jon Estes wrote:It seems we are in a time where some poor representations from a few church leaders caused a concern to put the thumb on all churches.

There is a lot to this, if time permits, I’ll see if I can find time to make it more clear.

Hope you can. Were the poor representations local or international?

They were Expats from US. The best way I can describe what I know is they clearly disrespected the authorities. Several problems with that, the most being the witness for Christ was dumped for selfish want. We are guests here and need to respect those whose home this is. That can be done without compromising our Christian witness and God's Word. One poor behavioral action affected all of us.

From Gerry Milligan...Jon, I spoke with a man who just came from Dubai and he filled me in as to the problems which arose from the blatant actions of some leaders in evangelical circles. I learned in the Emirates that most things are seen and by tweaking noses does no one any good. I will continue to keep EBC,I in my prayers. I remember being in the living room (which served as the "sanctuary") of the dentist who allowed the church to meet in his home. Keep up the work of God.